Priyadarshan ready to helm Hera Pheri 3, Akshay Kumar says 'Let's do it'

Priyadarshan announced his return as director for Hera Pheri 3 on his birthday. Akshay Kumar responded enthusiastically, hinting at a reunion with Suniel Shetty and Paresh Rawal for the sequel.

In Short

• Priyadarshan to direct Hera Pheri 3, invites Akshay, Suniel, Paresh
• Akshay Kumar excitedly accepts Priyadarshan's offer
• Akshay wished Priyadarshan on his 68th birthday

Renowned filmmaker Priyadarshan, who helmed the 2000 comedy-drama Hera Pheri, has announced his return as director for Hera Pheri 3. On his birthday on Thursday, he extended an invitation to franchise regulars Akshay Kumar, Suniel Shetty, and Paresh Rawal to reunite for the much-anticipated sequel. Akshay responded to the offer.

Replying to Akshay’s birthday wish on X, Priyadarshan posted, "Thank you so much for your wishes, Akshay. In return, I would like to give you a gift—I’m willing to do Hera Pheri 3. Are you ready, @akshaykumar, @SunielVShetty, and @SirPareshRawal? (sic)."

Akshay, who plays one of the franchise’s lead characters, reacted enthusiastically, saying, "Sir!!! Your birthday, and I got the best gift of my life. Chalo karte hain phir thodi Hera Pheri :) @SirPareshRawal @SunielVShetty @priyadarshandir." He also shared his popular ‘Miracle Miracle’ meme.

Earlier in the day, Akshay had wished Priyadarshan on his 68th birthday by posting a picture from the set of their upcoming film Bhoot Bangla. "Happy Birthday, Priyan Sir! What better way to celebrate than by spending the day on a haunted set, surrounded by ghosts—both real and unpaid extras? Thank you for being a mentor and the only person who can make chaos look like a masterpiece. May your day be filled with fewer retakes. Wishing you a fantastic year ahead! @priyadarshan.official," he wrote.

Earlier this month, Akshay spoke about the enduring legacy of Hera Pheri. In an interview with Pinkvilla, he said, "When we started Hera Pheri, we didn’t know it would go on to become such a cult. Even when I saw the film, I didn’t fully realise its impact. Yes, it was funny, but none of us expected Babu Bhaiya, Raju, and Shyam to become iconic characters."

Released in 2000, Hera Pheri achieved cult status over the years. Its sequel, Phir Hera Pheri, released in 2006, was also well received by audiences. Now, fans eagerly await the third installment of the beloved franchise.